BAGAN, MYANMAR--Ananda Temple is one of the largest and most revered of the thousands of temples, pagodas, and stupas in Bagan. It dates back originally to the 11th to 12th centuries, but it has been renovated many times over the years, work that is clearly evident throughout but especially on the exterior.
This photo depicts the Ananda Temple, one of the most revered and well-preserved Buddhist temples in Bagan, Myanmar. Built around 1105 AD during the reign of King Kyanzittha of the Pagan Empire, the Ananda Temple is considered a masterpiece of Mon architecture and a crowning example of early Burmese temple design. The temple's distinctive structure follows a perfectly symmetrical cruciform layout, with four entrance halls leading to a central square. The exterior is notable for its whitewashed walls and golden spires (sikhara) that rise above the cube-like structure, creating a striking silhouette against the Bagan skyline. These architectural elements blend Indian-influenced design with unique Burmese innovations. One of the most remarkable features of the Ananda Temple is its four colossal standing Buddha statues, each facing a cardinal direction. These statues, nearly 10 meters tall, are positioned in the niches of the central cube. The Buddhas facing north and south are believed to be original, while those facing east and west are later replacements. The temple's exterior walls are adorned with over 1,500 stone plaques depicting scenes from the Jataka tales, stories of the Buddha's previous lives. These intricate carvings offer valuable insights into the religious narratives and artistic styles of the period. Inside, the temple's vaulted corridors are lined with niches containing seated Buddha images and other sculptural works. The interior is designed to be bathed in natural light, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to meditation and worship. The Ananda Temple has undergone several restorations throughout its history, most notably after the 1975 earthquake. These careful preservation efforts have maintained much of its original splendor, making it one of the best-preserved temples in Bagan. As a functioning place of worship, the Ananda Temple continues to play a significant role in Myanmar's Buddhist traditions. It's a popular site for both pilgrims and tou
Size: 6706px × 4475px
Location: Ananda Temple, Bagan, Mandalay Region, Myanmar (Burma)
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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